Russian folk outfit Arkona has parted ways with longtime drummer Vlad Sokolov. This is unusual for the band as it is their first line-up change in the last 10 years. For now, the band still hasn't announced a replacement but they say they are ready to move on and continue their journey.

Arkona issued this statement: "We have a sad news - Vlad 'Artist' Sokolov left our band. It's first change in our line-up for the last 10 years and it is hard for us to realize it. Vlad decided to leave the band at the beginning of summer 2013. The main reasons are tiredness of live shows and his desire to spend more time with his family.

"We are very thankful for everything he made for the band during these 10 years! But, our journey continues and we are ready to turn the next page of our history..."




The band has already recorded their new album Yav but it is yet to reveal when it will be released exactly. But the band did describe it as a "unique album, different from our previous works" and pointed towards a May 2014 release.

Source:	facebook.com
Band profile:	Arkona